Showing posts with label 1997. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1997. Show all posts

Saturday, March 25, 2017

VooDoo Mob - 210 Soldiers

VooDoo Mob - 210 Soldiers
VooDoo Mob is a collective that represents from the dark alleys of San Antonio, TX. The crew consists of Voodoo King, 666 and Magik Man. 210 Soldiers is their debut EP and it was released in 1997 on 210 Records. Production is solely provided by the Magik Man, who is the group's devoted in-house producer. The rhythms are presented in a very grim and gloomy style. They are derived through heavy bass lines which incorporate a steady usage of samples and are finally finished off with some dark synths. The bass heavy pattern meshes beautifully with the horrorcore sound. It's a smooth transition and one that definitely pays homage to the early Bass culture of San Antonio's diverse Rap scene. Lyrically, the EP is quite hard to judge due to the fact that the vocals are only laid on two of the tracks. The rest of the cuts are just plain instrumentals. The group does show a limited amount of promise on the microphone but their rhymes give off a very simple vibe. The lyrics seem like freestyles that are coming fresh off the domes rather than something that is a bit more concrete. There is hardly any direction in the songs and it seems as if the verses were just cut and pasted together. As mentioned above, there are only two cuts with vocals so this assessment maybe a bit harsh but one can only imagine what the group members could have accomplished with the rest of the tracks or possibly even a full fledged album. The EP closes out with a meager total of seven tracks and since this is a tape only release, some sound quality issues are to be somewhat expected. Overall it's a decent effort by the SA Town natives and one that is as obscure as finding a needle in a haystack. While the release does carry a strange and intriguing vibe, sadly there is just not enough substance or core matter to keep the listener coming back for more.

Album Notes
* Also worth checking out is Michael Mixerr's review on this tape.

Saturday, January 14, 2017

Sporty T - Chromed Out

Terence Vine, better known as Sporty T, was an artist who represented the deadly bayous of New Orleans, LA. Most known for his whimsical flow as well as his infamous war on wax against Cash Money Records, Sporty first started out in 1986, as a member of the Ninja Crew with Gregory D and DJ Baby T. After their short lived success, he would end up pursuing the solo route and would go on to become one of New Orleans' best kept secrets. Chromed Out is his fourth album and it was released in 1997 on Ruff Era Records. Production, as with most of his releases is handled by his right hand man, the masterful T-Bone. The skillful, David "D-Funk" Faulk programs all the necessary equipment with Ice Mike, who is also credited for one of the tracks as well. The rhythms are crafted from the ground up and are thoroughly entertaining. They contain various instruments and carry that typical N.O. sound. A type of sound that is best exemplified through blaring horns, dark synths, funky bass, piercing bells and finished off with a strict cadence of drums. This concoction serves as the foundation for the record and it certainly does not disappoint. Sporty T is a top caliber lyricist and takes full advantage of the solid production. His delivery is rapid and full of word play. His tone is quite rough and when combined with his quick pace and a strong vocabulary which truly makes him a standout on the microphone. The album signs off with a decent total of twelve tracks with multiple shots being fired at Cash Money Records and the Hot Boy$. It's hard to pin point how the feud began between the two parties. Some say it was just a misunderstanding on Sporty's behalf while others have claimed it was Cash Money Records who drew first blood. Whatever the case may be, it was very clear that both sides meant business and it was more than just some rap. Sporty T was murdered in 2008 while he slept in his home. An unknown gunmen who was carrying an AK-47, opened fire on the exterior of his trailer home. Paramedics found Sporty T's wounded body inside on his bed and pronounced him dead at the scene. In the end, the city of New Orleans lost a man who is considered by many to be a pioneer for the city's Rap and Hip Hop scene. A local legend with a timeless catalog of music, who always gave his best when inside the recording booth. Rest in peace to the ambitious, Sporty T.

Deadly Verses
Dope Tito

The Aftermath


Album Notes
* Sporty T is also a member of the Wet Boys.
* Wet Boys was a group created to counter the Hot Boy$.

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Ms. Tee - Hot Girl

Trishell Williams, better known as Ms. Tee, is an artist that represents from the vile swamps of New Orleans, LA. Known throughout the Southern region for her soothing voice and providing vicious backup vocals, Ms. Tee first started off with Cash Money Records. In fact, she was the first female artist signed to that infamous label. After three somewhat successful albums with Cash Money Records, she would end up leaving them over a royalty dispute in the year 1996. Hot Girl is her fourth album and it was released in 1997 on the rival label, Untouchable Records. As with most Untouchable releases, production duties are assigned to Merrill "Real Roc" Robinson and Gary "Ozone" McKee. Together, they provide a spirited collection of rhythms that strictly define that classic New Orleans sound. A type of sound that seems laid back but is hype at the same time. The beats incorporate vivid notes from the genre of Bounce as well as various Southern elements to complete their composition. Now, the blend mentioned above only works flawlessly on a few cuts. Some tracks on here seem to have too much going on at one given point and almost become an audible distraction. Some of these faults could be blamed on the mixing and mastering department but not all of them. Not to worry though, because the composers do a good enough job of camouflaging these blemishes by spacing the tracks properly. The record also has its' ups and downs in the lyrical section. Ms. Tee is no ordinary songstress. Her tone is quite mollifying and she can change her pitch and tempo instantaneously. It's her blunt approach and vulgar themes that tend to go downhill. Although, one could overlook the vulgarity due to the record's underground nature and let it pass but it's truly hard to ignore the subject matter. The songs end up taxing the listener at one point or another and their motives become very unclear. Also, there is hardly any originality to her rhymes. Almost every verse or hook is an interpolation of a popular R&B song, Ms. Tee just presents it with her Southern flair and outlandish demeanor. Thus the end result is a mundane one even with the artist's superb voice. Guest appearances are made by L.O.G., Fila Phil, Lokee, Pimp Dogg, Charlie Hanseen, S.A.C. Mafia and Mike Love. The album rounds out with a total of fifteen tracks and with the discrepancies mentioned above, it becomes impossible to finish it in one sitting. Although the record can sustain itself because of the lavish guest list, it just doesn't have anything long term for the listener. Neither lyrically nor musically. The end result is a sub par effort from the artist, especially when considering the fact that she was known for providing the deadliest choruses and hooks money could buy in The Boot.
      

Sunday, November 6, 2016

K-Otix - Spontaneity

K-Otix is a trio that represents from the forbidden streets of Houston, TX. It consists of Damien, Mic and The ARE. The group is most known for showcasing their traditional style of Hip Hop while still maintaining a Southern demeanor. K-Otix was formed in the early part of 1992 and while the group's main alias has remained unchanged, it was their individual names that varied. Damien was known as Dookie Luv, Mic was known as Mic The Madman and The ARE was known as Roc Smuv. It wasn't until 1996 when they decided to drop their former monikers and started work on their debut. Their original plan was to work with another group out of Houston which went by the name of Example. Now as far as styles are concerned, Example and K-Otix were on the same page. They both swayed away from the typical style of Southern Rap and really molded themselves after their East Coast colleagues. The two groups planned to release a double EP with Side 1 belonging to K-Otix and Side 2 belonging to Example. Things did not go as planned and the idea of the double EP was shelved altogether. Both parties took their rightful material and released their own projects separately. Example released the highly covetable EP called, "Impulses" and K-Otix countered with Spontaneity, which is certainly of equal caliber. Spontaneity is their debut album and it was released in 1997 on K-Otix Entertainment. The album is produced by the group's masterful in house producer, Russell "The ARE" Gonzales. The ARE, who is a protege of the legendary DJ Premier, really models his style after the great Gang Starr DJ. It was under Premier's tutelage where ARE truly learned the fundamentals of proper production. The beats are sample driven for the most part. They contain various elements of Hip Hop and are a treat to listen to. ARE's recipe of construction is a simple one. He samples a dope hook, punches in the bass and finishes it off with a cadence of drums. This theme then serves as a backbone for the group's identity. Lyrically the record is also very strong. Damien and Mic are no slouch on the microphone. They tend to display a lot of word play as well as an extensive and imaginative vocabulary. Their rhymes are fiery, vivid and intellectual. They immediately take the listener hostage from the very first track. Also worth noting is the chemistry the two artists have with each other. The EP closes out at a modest total of eight bonafide tracks leaving the listener craving for more. Overall, this was a solid effort by the group and one that was well worth the wait. Aside from a handful of acts, most groups out of the city of Houston are somewhat one dimensional and tend to jock each other for style or publicity. It takes a whole different mindset and not to mention the courage, to go against the norm in the South. K-Otix unorthodox approach is what separates them from the rest. Spontaneity garnered a good bit of success and eventually led the group to sign a major distribution deal with the New York based label known as, Bronx Science. Even with the success of a few singles on the radio and the aforementioned publishing deal, K-Otix never really broke into the mainstreams. Then again, maybe that was something they weren't too concerned about. It seems as if they were quite content in the underground, challenging other artists for the subterranean throne. In the end, their vast career spans over two decades and their catalog of timeless material certainly speaks for itself.

Deadly Verses
7 MCs


Album Notes
* This EP is color coded into three variations.
* First Pressing: Yellow - Second Pressing: Red - Third Pressing: Blue
* The ARE left the group in 2004 before rejoining them in 2015.
* K-Otix is also a member of the super group, Ethos.

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Suthern Merchandise - Suthern Stress

Suthern Merchandise, also known as the Suthern Merchandise Family, is a collective from the illicit streets of San Antonio, TX. Although membership has varied throughout their active years, the core congregation has remained unchanged. The main group consists of Ricé, PFK, Black Satin, K-9, Big B, Lady Lunatic, 2 Face and Big Jay. This is their debut compilation album and it was released in the early part of 1997 on Suthern Merchandise Records. The excellent southern fried production is provided by none other than the skillful producer, Ricé. His classic approach and superb craftsmanship is brought upon every track. The beats are laced with numerous instruments and are free of samples. They contain deep bass lines with solid drums which are then intricately mixed with twangy guitar licks and topped off with some smooth synthesizers. This recipe is used during the whole of the album and it certainly gives of a satisfying vibe. The lyrics are also on point. The members take full advantage of the rhythms and present their end of the deal with utmost precision. Their rhymes are delivered sharply and explicitly. The pace is not at a brisk level but still moves along at a very decent rate. All members are quite accomplished on the microphone but the ones that standout the most are K-9 and Black Satin. Also worth taking a note of are the sublime backup vocals and superior chorus hooks which are meshed into most of the tracks. The album closes out with a total a of twelve genuine cuts and they are all equally enjoyable. As a group, Suthern Merchandise dropped one more album towards the end of the year 1997 known as, "Still In Da Game." All in all, this record exemplifies the masterful artistry which dwells in the lower levels of San Antonio's massive underground music scene. It shows a lot of promise as well as an admirable amount of talent from the parties involved. Although this was a very limited release with a restricted number of pressings, the record still has the uncanny ability to keep up with any mainstream release from the South.

Deadly Verses
Suthern Merchandise ft. K-9

Album Notes
* Suthern Merchandise disbanded in the year 2002.
* K-9 would later change his alias to K-9ine.

Friday, May 20, 2016

Example - Impulses

Example is a duo that represents from the notorious streets of Houston, TX. It consists of Dekay and DJ Cipher. The group is known for their thought provoking rhymes that are blended with equally provocative rhythms. The two members initially met as roommates and decided to form the group in the summer of 1996. Their original plan was to work with their fellow Houstonian rap crew known as K-Otix and to release a double sided EP. One side would consist of songs by Example while the other side would have tracks by K-Otix. The EP would serve as a debut for both groups and would eventually become a stepping stone for the parties involved. Things did not go as planned and the idea of the double EP was dropped altogether with both groups releasing their debut EP's separately. K-Otix released the now sought after EP called, "Spontaneity," while Example put out Impulses. Impulses is their debut and it was released in 1997 on Beat Farm Recordings. The record was later picked up by Dope Folks Records and re-released in 2013 due to its highly desired and very limited nature. The production is split between DJ Cipher and Dekay while DJ Baby C is credited for the scratching. The beats can simply be described as pure Hip-Hop. They are a representation of the classic style which involves heavy sampling for the foundation of the beat, along with the skillful use of the turntables. The rhythms tend to be very colorful and are a perfect blend of southern funk fused with the traditional style mentioned above. This melodic fusion sends out an atmospheric setting which is quite mellow and relaxed. Lyrically the record is also very impressive. Dekay's clever rhymes incorporate a strong use of word play and are delivered sharply. His verbal artistry is deep with meaning and can certainly catch the listener by surprise. The subject matter is also unique and refreshing due to the fact that it strays away from the local H-Town sound. Not to worry though because the record still caters to its southern roots and shows a side of southern rap that has become a commodity in that region. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word "Impulse" as a wave of excitation transmitted through tissues and especially nerve fibers and muscles that results in physiological activity or inhibition. That is exactly what this record does when played in full. Each track sucks the listener in to a different realm created by the authors of this work of art. A trance like state is induced but one is still aware of the edginess of the material because of its realistic composure. One can also see this result on the front cover art which is beautifully presented through the work of crayons. It is truly hard to believe that this piece was conjured up in 1997. The group's vision and their motives were certainly ahead of their time. Example went on to release a few more singles as well as a full length album before disbanding. The two are still around today but they dwell in the depths of the underground. Those who are searching for real music will always know where and how to find them.

Deadly Verses
Recollect

Album Notes
* Dekay would later change his alias to just Kay.
* Kay would become a member of the group called, The Foundation.
* DJ Cipher would become a member of The Kracker Nuttz.

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Minds Of Mischief - Unexpected Changes

Minds Of Mischief is a group that represents from the notorious southside of Houston, TX. The trio consists of Hollow Tip, Fix and 1-Five-1. They were discovered by Stuart "Poopie" Henderson, who was so impressed by the groups' fast paced flows that he immediately signed them to his Evolution Records label. Unexpected Changes is their debut album and it was released in 1997 on Evolution Records and in collaboration with 2 Much Productions. As it is customary with any Evolution release, the bulk of the production is handled by Stuart "Poopie" Henderson, himself and he is assisted by the likes of Louis "Hollywood" Hayes and Kevin "Red" Allen. The beats are a beautiful blend of that classic southern sound that accompanies twangy guitar riffs which are mixed with hard hitting drums and finally complimented by some smooth keyboarding. The rhythms contain various styles and are thoroughly enjoyable. The tracks carry a solid foundation and are certainly very welcoming for the artists. The album also excels in the lyrical department. All three members are more than capable on the microphone and they can definitely claim it with ease. The rhymes are delivered quickly and sharply. Word play is used as the main ingredient which in return gives the lyrics a very strong backbone. Also, the choruses and the back up vocals are all on point. Guest appearances are made by D-Red of the Botany Boys, Papa Reu, Lady 14, Vikta Black, Note, Boy-Bo and Lil' Mooney. The album rounds out at a decent total of fourteen tracks and although the record starts off a bit slow, it certainly picks up the pace and finishes with prime subject matter. This was an ambitious effort by the trio but it could not garner any type of success, hence this being their only release. While the product is full of variety and is quite deep with flavor, it certainly lacks the finishing touches of a major publishing company or a big name label. In the end, it just shows the humbleness of the group and how eagerly they jumped on the first chance to get their name and personalities noticed all the while knowing the past history of Poopie and his mismanaged label. Evolution Records was bound to self destruct because of the incompetency that was showed by its' staff and mainly, Poopie Henderson himself. Although he is a remarkable producer and he certainly has an ear for finding talent, he did not have the expertise of running a full fledged record company. He signed such great acts like the Coppertone Conspiracy, A-Posse, Quess but also abused them out of their fair share of royalties and eventually, drove them away. Some say it was Poopie's violent temper while others have blamed his faulty publishing and marketing team, both were a recipe for disaster. The Minds Of Mischief were suppose to be the label's last hurrah but they too went unheralded like the rest of their label mates. It is a little disheartening to see such good talent go to waste but what's more discomforting is that they were all cheated and hung out to dry by their own record label.

Deadly Verses
Mama U Better Tell 'Em


Album Notes
* Evolution Records went defunct in the year 1998.
   

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Mr. Hard - Cappeela

Mr. Hard is a rapper who represents from the venomous streets of Dallas, TX. He is well known in the underground for his raspy tone and vicious delivery. Cappeela is his debut album and it was released in 1997. The record label is unknown due to the fact that this is an underground release with a very limited number of pressings but it could have been published through Cappeela Records or Strapped 4 Life Records. Production is handled by Ice Kold, Drew and Bently. They team up to provide beats that are not only funky but they also carry a hard, street edged sound. While a couple of the rhythms are sample assisted, the rest of them have a very original feel. Probably the most notable sample is from the King Of Pop, Micheal Jackson's (R.I.P.) "Lady In My Life," which is heavily used on the track "Mama." Lyrically the album is also rock solid. As mentioned above, Mr. Hard can easily wreck the mic. His harsh approach and gruff demeanor go hand in hand and it is the perfect recipe for the rhymes on display. The word play used is definitely above average while the variations to his tone and tempo are all done with pure swiftness. Guest appearances are made by Ice Ice, T-Boz, Sinister, Cris, Shannon, Ice Kold, Natae V-IC and Bloody. Also, the sublime painting for the front cover was done by the artist, Herschel Yelder. This was an excellent effort by Mr. Hard and one that still sounds as glorious as it did back in '97. Not only is the quality of material timeless, it also carries a certain level of gratification when played. It could be the uncanny nature of this underground release or it could be the shroud of mystery that lingers behind its' originator. Whatever the reason may be, the fact remains that this eighteen year old album can shame and degrade most albums being released today.

Deadly Verses

Album Notes
* Herschel Yelder is a renowned artist in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
* Also worth checking out is Mr. Hard's second album, Strap 4 Life.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Aaron J - Gulf Coast Players

Aaron Johnson, known simply as Aaron J, is a rapper and singer from the northside of Houston, TX. He founded Gulf Coast Records in the mid nineties with the help of his long time friend, Marvin Cooper alias Voo-Doo. Together, they recruited D-Dub, Cee Note and Monna-Lis, the female emcee/singer and formed what is known as The Gulf Coast Click. Now with the group established it was time to hit the recording studios. Gulf Coast Players is their debut album which was released in 1997 on Gulf Coast Records and published through World Wide Entertainment. Production on this masterpiece is done by Pat Rodriguez, Stuart "Poopie" Henderson, Kelvin Allen, Lavia Flood and Aaron J himself. The producers create a very smooth and laid back atmosphere with the beats. This southern fried production is of top notch quality and is really a treat to the ear drums. Funky guitar licks, soothing bass lines, menacing drums and some groovy keyboarding are just a few examples of what is delivered as a total package. Lyrically the album is also quite impressive. Aaron J and his crew are no slouch on the microphone. They take turns displaying their verbal artistry and make good use of the tracks provided. A good dose of R&B style singing is presented with a mixture of Southern Rap which truly gives the listener an eclectic view of the whole record. Overall Aaron J and his crew put together an excellent effort, one that is definitely worth noting. Since this happens to be their only release, it has long been out of print and is very sought after by fans.

Deadly Verses

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Nuk Ruk - Invaderz Of The Dark

Nuk Ruk - Invaderz Of The Dark
Nuk Ruk is a marvelous group from Houston, TX. As a collective they represent for the sub genre known as Christian Rap. It consists of BDI, Dez, Dr. Yo, JoEmcee, Earth, Chameleon, Outlaw and DJ CleanCut. The name Nuk Ruk, is actually abbreviated for Nucklehead Ruckus which in turn basically means knuckle heads causing ruckus. The group is well known for their extremely hype and energetic concerts as well as their thought provoking rhymes that are congenially mixed with some equally exceptional rhythms. Nuk Ruk debuted in 1994 with their breakout album, "The Road Less Traveled." Invaderz Of The Dark is their sophomore effort and it was released in 1997 on Nuk Ruk Records. Production is solely handled by BDI, who is a creative genius when it comes to beats. He is also the main direction behind the group's signature sound and exclusive persona. The beats are derived through multiple instruments and can be classified somewhat under Industrial and Experimental Hip Hop. They are certainly unique and carry a fresh and genuine vibe. The process of sampling is kept to a minimum but the few that are used are put to good use. The most notable one being Ludwig Van Beethoven's "Für Elise" which is used on the track "The Road Less Traveled." This sort of artistry is what defines the group's style and becomes a type of signature brand for the remaining cuts on the album. Lyrically the album also fares very well. Each member brings a designated and peculiar flow pattern. Their rhymes can vary in speed but the commendable word play and superb delivery is what remains constant. Now the core content can be perceived from a religious stand point but since their lyrics are so diverse and imaginative, it is truly left upon the listener to dissect the meaning or message any further. Guest appearances are courtesy of NRG and Kathy Abshire. This also happens to be a double disc album that carries a remarkable total of thirty one tracks. Although Nuk Ruk put together an intellectual and entertaining package, it wasn't enough to propel them into mainstream stardom. Especially with the emergence of the Swang & Bang sound and the decline of real Hip Hop in Houston, it wasn't long before Nuk Ruk found themselves in the lower levels of the underground. Tons of artists in the city found themselves facing this exact same dilemma. Some jumped on the band wagon quick while others changed their style or delivery to fit the mold of the upcoming era and then finally there were those who refused to change and stay true to their art but in the end were not as fortunate as the aforementioned. The latter pretty much disappeared from the entire scene and were talked about as if they were some sort of fables. In Nuk Ruk's case, it is truly a shame to see such great talent and vision fall simply by the wayside. Even though they created a loyal following of fans that are still hoping and wishing for a Nuk Ruk reunion, the future of real Hip Hop in Houston looks pretty bleak.

Deadly Verses

Friday, August 8, 2014

Livin' Illegal - Married To The Game

Livin' Illegal is a duo from the south side of Houston, TX. It consists of two members whom are under the aliases, G-Down and Gangsta Slim. The two met at a local high school and quickly became fond of each others rapping ability. They ended up being discovered by Anthony Johnson and Married To The Game was released in 1997 on Hollow Point Records. It is produced mainly by Bruce "Grim Reaper" Rhodes and Will-B-Fresh while Icey Hott and G-Lee help out on a couple of tracks. The production is top notch southern funk to say the least. Groovy guitar licks meshed with edgy synths and a good dose of bass are incorporated into each track. The cuts flow very smoothly and also blend effortlessly with each other. The duo take full advantage of what is laid out for them and take turns displaying their vocal arsenal. Rhymes are filled with word play and certainly come off with an aggressive nature. The tone is definitely set at rough and it helps to steer the project. The two members make sure they give it their all on the microphone and leave the studio booth with no regrets. Guest appearances are made by MC Thick, Icey Hott and K.B. Da Kidnappa of Street Military. All in all this record tends to be a prime example of where the label held the producers and the artists accountable for the final output. It exemplifies a genuine product which is delivered through hard work and determination. Although this release dwells in the depths of the underground it still deserves a listen and a honorable mention.

Deadly Verses

Friday, July 2, 2010

TIC - Untouchable

TIC which stands for The Intelligent Criminal, is an excellent rapper and a superb producer from Fort Worth, TX. He has been around since the mid nineties and has close ties with the Funky Town Killaz. Untouchable is his second solo album and it was released in 1997 on Boy-N-Girl Records. The precisely smooth production is split between Slack, Bishop "Stick" Burrell, and Tic himself. They team up to provide some of the most amazingly crisp yet strictly southern beats. All Instruments are used to their legitimate apex and sampling is kept to a minimum. Heavy drums, ideal bass lines and intoxicating synths are all presented with an utmost attention to detail. Tic's delivery on the microphone is something vicious indeed. He uses his hefty drawl and choice word play on every track. Lyrics are demonstrated with an accurate amount of flair and are thoroughly captivating. Also, his rhyme pattern is certainly genuine and incomparable to others. Guest appearances are made by the Funky Town Killaz, Keke, Bombay, Pitt, Patt, Rodney, Special K, Kim Reed, Sky, J.D., and K.D. All in all the album covers an ample measure of topics and subjects. The recipe used to create this project was simple but the outcome in return was much greater. The record can easily be placed in high regards due to its exquisite content and original nature. The album's vibe gives off an indescribable level of gratification which ends up making its' demeanor truly, untouchable.

Deadly Verses
Troubleman (Remix)

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Klondike Kat - Mobbin' Muzik Melodies

Klondike Kat - Mobbin' Muzik Melodies
Klondike Kat is a multi talented artist from the neighborhood of South Park in Houston, TX. He's a genuine lyricist, a marvelous producer and an excellent singer. He has been in the business for over twenty years and is very well respected. He also holds membership in the legendary South Park Coalition as well as the infamous Killa Klan. He debuted in 1993 with the album, "The Lyrical Lion." Mobbin' Muzik Melodies is his sophomore effort and it was released in 1997 on Beatbox Records. Production on the album is managed by Icey Hott of Street Military, Mo' Dangerous, Stro, Richard Johnson and Klondike Kat. The beats are assembled with twangy guitars, an ample amount of bass and forceful synths. The array of tracks are soundly mixed and they carry the album especially well. Kat can deliver his rhymes with an approximate sense of ease. His style is unique and his verses flourish with broad subjects. He possesses a vivid vocabulary and leisurely displays it on every ballad. Along with that, he boldly sings most of the hooks and choruses. Guest appearances are made by members of the Killa Klan and the South Park Coalition. That include the likes of Pharoah, Icey Hott, Lil' Flea, Burton Boyz, Fakkulty, K-Rino, Dope-E, Point Blank, Ganksta NIP, Ice Lord, PSK-13, A.C. Chill, Blunt, Jam, Big 20 and Felony. The album also contains two notorious cuts that have ever graced a record. One of them is an eight minute long anthem of the superior Killa Klan known as, "Loc'ed Out Drop Top." The other is a nine minute long S.P.C. tribute, which happens to be the next installment to the original "Murder Script." All in all the record can simply be justified as a melodic classic. Klondike Kat showcases his capability as a pure artist and he certainly provides the underground with a complete masterpiece.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

DJ DMD - Eleven

DJ DMD is an excellent rapper and producer from Port Arthur, TX. Eleven is the debut album by DMD and the Inner Soul Clique. It was released in 1997 on Inner Soul Records. Production was done by DJ DMD and Skip Holman. Thundering bass lines and solid samples are the foundation for all the beats. Lyrics are also very impressive. DMD and the numerous members of the Inner Soul Clique can wreck the microphone with ease. Featuring artists on the album are UGK, DJ Screw & the Screwed Up Click, Ronnie Spencer and the Inner Soul Clique which consists of Blue Lite, Lee Masta, Bull, Momo, Lil' Wink and Boonie Locc. This album also contains two versions of the infamous track "So Real." One has DJ Screw and Al-D on it while the other one is a remix which has Fat Pat, Lil' Keke, Mike D, C-Note of the Botany Boys with Screw attending to the turntables. A very commendable album overall especially for being a debut. DJ DMD went on and released the album "Twenty-Two: P.A. World Wide" in 1998 and concluded with "Thirty-Three: Live From Hiroshima" in 2001. DJ DMD was a member in the group called The Original Point Blank and is also well known respected affiliate of the infamous Underground Kingz.

Deadly Verses

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Botany Boys - Thought Of Many Ways

Botany Boys - Thought Of Many Ways
Botany Boys is a group from Cloverland, a neighborhood located on the southside of Houston, TX. The group first started in 1996 when they released their debut LP, Smokin 'N Leanin. The members are C-Note, D-Red, Will Lean, Head, D-E-Z, Pap Pap and the Botany B.G.'s which consists of Lil' 3rd and B.G. Gator. Their sophomore record, Thought Of Many Ways is a 2-Disc album which was released in 1997 on Big Shot Records. D-Red is the man behind all the production and he did an excellent job on this one. The Beats are hard hitting and are filled with woozy and whiny synths. Each member has a distinct flow and their lyrics vary on both discs. Disc 1 is more laid back with smooth flows while Disc 2 is more gangsta and contains that southern harsh reality. Features are courtesy of Bun B of UGK, D of Trinity Garden Cartel, Big Moe, Lil' Keke, Ronnie Spencer, Quanell X, Angie, Vic, and the legendary DJ Screw. The group released their final ablum "Botany Forever" in 2000 and eventually broke up. Members D-E-Z and Head got incarcerated and another member lost his life. Rest in peace B.G. Gator. Members C-Note, Will Lean and D-Red pursued a solo route. This group was also part of the Screwed Up Click (S.U.C.). Thought Of Many Ways will always remain a H-Town classic. The Botany Boys held their ground and put the neighborhood of Cloverland on the map.

Deadly Verses



Deadly Video

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Psycho Ward - www.Psychoward.com

Psycho Ward is a super group from the notorious city of New Orleans, LA. The group is well over twenty members deep but the main ones are Blaknificent, E.F. Cuttin, Raj Smoove, Mac "Da Camouflage Assassin," Coola, Stress, One Eye, Chill, King Solemn-One, Karamello, Paul J, B-Style, Brainstorm, Black Plague, Kool Breeze, Toppa, and last but not least, Anon. This is their debut album and it was released in 1997 on Dust Em Off Recordings (D.E.O.). The production was done by The Tribunal which basically consists of Raj Smoove, Blaknificent and E.F. Cuttin. The beats are all well crafted and carry a very distinct sound. They are very melodic and really seem to be a perfect fit for the group. The rhymes are certainly unique and they happen to have an east coast sound to them. Each member is more than capable on the microphone and can deliver their lyrics with a lot of passion and energy. Also worth noting is that the core content differs from your typical Louisiana record and definitely stands out from the rest, especially lyrically.

Deadly Verses

Sunday, September 21, 2008

2 Real - Welcome 2 Tha Real World

2 Real - Welcome 2 Tha Real World
2 Real is a rap group from Houston, TX. The two members are actually brothers who are under the aliases as Lil' V (Vinnie Valentine) and Lil' D (Mr. Everline). This group is also affiliated with the legendary Killa Klan and the South Park Coalition. This is their debut album and it was released in 1997 on Crunk Records. Production on this record was done by Icey Hott of Street Military, DJ Storm, D-Red of the Botany Boys and Jay Da Sinnusta. The beats are unforgiving and are straight out of gangster territory. The Lyrics, hooks and samples are all tight as well. Their rhymes portray a lot of realism and also happen to be very versatile. Featuring artists on the album are Klondike Kat, J-Bone, Brandi and Lil' Flea of Street Military. Mr. Everline is also the leader of local collective known as the $tack Pack.

Deadly Verses
Game ft. Lil' Flea


Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Pharoah - Six Foot Giant

Pharoah is a rapper from the notorious neighborhood of South Park in Houston, TX. He is a member of Street Military and is also the founder of the legendary Killa Klan. He is regarded by many to be one of the sickest rappers to have emerged from Houston's underground. His flow is straight raw and is delivered with a fast paced tongue twisting style. This is his debut solo album and it was released in 1997 on Beatbox Records. Production was done by Icey Hott, G-Rapp and Klondike Kat and it fits Pharoah like a glove. Featuring on the album are the Burton Boyz. Pharoah is currently incarcerated for armed robbery and attempted murder. He is serving a hefty fifty year sentence. Although now some say that he lost his mind due to smoking a ton of PCP but when he was in his prime, he was a runaway freight train that was impossible to stop.